Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Step1
Determine which type of self-learning software you want to select, based upon your specific interests. Most types of self-learning software are geared toward the beginner, and offer information at a remedial level. If you already have experience in your field of interest, you may want to select self-learning software that is modular in structure and has specific applications according to the user's skills or experience level.
Step2
Read reviews of self-learning software in computer magazines and periodicals to determine if they are of value to you. Magazines such as "Computer World," "Wired" and "PC World," which are available at most bookstores and computer retailers, offer independent testing and evaluation of most types of self-learning software.
Step3
Select self-learning software that is relatively easy to install and will not require any additional downloads to perform properly. In some cases, a particularly comprehensive software design may take up large amounts of hard drive space, and may even compromise your security system. Ask a software retailer if the program is compatible with your current operating system before you buy.
Step4
Check websites, such as Butterfly Download, that offer free trial downloads for self-learning software that is related to your specific interests (see Resources below). This allows you to download the software for a few days to determine if you like it. Many of these sites may feature comments from others who have installed and used the software.
Step5
Use online resources, such as Software.com, to compare various types of self-learning software (see Resources below). These sites compare competing software programs in a particular category in terms of security, graphics, price and performance.